In November 2013, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) launched a new campaign with the slogan, ‘Amazing Thailand: it begins with the people’. The campaign emphasises the good characteristics of Thai people and is aimed at encouraging people to visit Thailand to experience Thai hospitality, culture and the unique sense of ‘Thainess’.
In the time since the launch of the new slogan, Thailand has been racked by yet more political upheaval. It’s hard to deny that Thailand has her share of faults, but the Thai people I’ve met on a daily basis have remained welcoming to me and continue to be gracious hosts. Amazing Thailand? Yes. It begins with the people? Yes, it really does.
Hill tribe girl at Doi Suthep Temple, Chiang Mai
Singing policeman at Sunday Walking Street Market, Chiang Mai
Traditional Lanna dress at the Chiang Mai Flower Festival
Novice monk meditates on Asahna Bucha Day
Roti vendors in Trang, southern Thailand
Smiling schoolgirls at Wat Pho, Bangkok
Cyclists on the Skytrain platform on Bangkok Car Free Day
86-year-old lady still working every day at her weaving loom in Phrae, north Thailand
Street parade in Phrae
Traditional fingernail dance at Buddhist religious festival in Phrae
